Participants often return home with unforgettable memories, new skills, and a fresh perspective on life. Here’s one more experience from a youth exchange that brought people together to reconnect with rural values.

From May 1 to 12, 2025, we had the opportunity to take part in a unique youth exchange within the Erasmus+ program titled “Rural Values”, which took place in the picturesque homestead of Száporcai Cifraház in southern Hungary.

The main theme of the project was the promotion, protection, and revival of traditional rural values, which are often overlooked or forgotten in today’s digital and urbanized world. The goal of the exchange was not only to learn about these values but also to actively contribute to their preservation through practical and meaningful activities.

During the intensive 10 days of the project, we engaged in numerous workshops and activities combining manual work, non-formal education, and community development. With great enthusiasm, we helped build a chicken coop, learned how to carve wooden spoons, constructed raised herb beds, and even tried the technique of grafting fruit trees – all traditional skills that hold a strong place in rural life. One of the highlights of the program was our participation in a local cycling race, which attracted over 400 participants – an exceptional experience that connected us with the local community and offered us insight into their lifestyle.

The project also focused on the educational aspects of youth exchanges. We discussed the principles of non-formal education, got to know the Youthpass tool, and regularly reflected on our experiences and personal growth throughout the activities. We evaluated our own involvement and learned how to be active citizens not only in our home countries but also beyond them.

The entire “Rural Values” project was a powerful hands-on experience in a beautiful and peaceful natural setting. It taught us not only new skills, but also the importance of simplicity, community, and sustainable living.
We believe that a similar experience awaits us again in the future – and that one day, we will return to Száporcai Cifraház. 🌾

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